In recent years, there’s been a rise in squatter removal services across the U.S., but one in the San Francisco Bay Area has attracted significant attention. This service is notable for its bold motto, “We don’t play,” and for being owned by a martial arts expert who wields a sword.
ASAP Squatter Removal, touted as Northern California’s top service for this issue, claims it has a success rate of 95%. Owner James Jacobs asserts he can eliminate unwanted occupants without the lengthy legal proceedings typical of eviction court.
The service recently appeared on KROM4, a local news station, which aired a segment promoting the company, albeit while featuring one of its legal experts who cautioned against their methods.
The story quickly gained traction, reaching audiences as far as the East Coast. The *New York Post* highlighted that many videos circulating online show Jacobs and his team using concealed weapons and employing unconventional eviction tactics.
According to the company, they initiate their process by pre-approving clients and then conducting surveillance to confirm that squatters are indeed on the property illegally.
The procedure they use is described as a “bleach and clear.”
Jacobs explained that their goal is to safely access the premises and check for any potential threats.
He demonstrated his sword skills outdoors, mentioning that the actual removal task would involve a real samurai sword.
“We have AR-15s, we have M90 shotguns,” he told the news station.
While the media seems fixated on the weapons aspect, the company’s website emphasizes that they utilize various strategies tailored to different squatter situations.
We have effective methods for every squatter scenario. Regardless of the number of individuals involved, their cleverness, or how dangerous they may be, we will successfully remove them. Once they are gone, we will safely relocate their belongings. No job is too challenging for us, and we can handle gang members and organized crime as well.
Jacobs mentioned that his company has formal lease agreements with property owners that permit them to intervene and remove squatters. He is confident that their actions remain within legal boundaries.
Legal analyst Stephen Clark expressed caution, suggesting that while the company may operate legitimately, the use of violent methods could result in serious legal repercussions.
“Sending someone with a deadly weapon could definitely lead to a catastrophe,” Clark warned. “If a conflict arises within the home, both the security firm and the client may bear responsibility.”
Jacobs, however, appears unfazed by the risks.
“I have multi-million dollar insurance policies and lawyers on staff,” he stated in an interview. “It seems like there are always unreasonable charges thrown at my business for financial gain.”
The company has received five-star reviews on their Yelp page.
One satisfied client noted, “We were dealing with a really tough situation with illegal occupancy and had no backup from local law enforcement. Thanks to their quick action, the squatter issue was resolved in just three days.”
According to reports, prices for ASAP Squatter Removal begin at $10,000.
